Functions of Proteins

• Source of energy (E)

• Stores E
• Structural functions
• Act as biological catalysts (enzymes)
• Protection from diseases (antibodies)
• Other varied functions depending on the kind
of proteins
 4. Nucleic Acids= C, H, O, N, P
• Building block: nucleotides
Components of Nucleotide:
1. Phosphate (PO4-)
2. 5-C sugar
• 3. Nitrogenous Bases
Complementary base pairing between pyrimidines & purines
3. Components of the important nucleotide,
Adenosine TriPhosphate (ATP)- a high energy carrier

4. Co-enzymes – transfer energy

eg. Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD), Flavin Adenine Dinucleotide
(FAD)
 Functions of Nucleic Acids
• Carry energy (ATP)
• Transfer energy (Co-enzymes)
• Informational macromolecules- DNA, RNA
 INORGANIC COMPOUNDS
1. Water
• 70-90% by wt.
• Universal solvent
• Needed for metabolic processes
• Replaces body fluids
• Regulates body temperature

Characteristics:
1. High boiling point
2. High heat capacity
 2. Gases
• Oxygen (O2) – for maintenance of life
(respiration)
• Carbon dioxide (CO2) – for manufacturing of
food (photosynthesis)

3. Inorganic Salts – in small amounts

(micronutrients)
NaCl (table salt)
calcium carbonate
 4. Acids, Bases, Buffers
• Acids – high H+
pH: 1-6
sour taste
litmus: blue to red
eg. Hydrochloric acid (inorganic) – in stomach
citric acid in citrus fruits, acetic acid in vinegar –
organic acids

• Bases – high OH-

pH: 8-14
bitter taste
litmus: blue to blue
eg. Soap, NaOH

– Buffers – a substance or combination of substances that